2015 - 2016

TrackOfficialsPacket

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TRACK OFFICIALS TABLE OF CONTENTS

The Interscholastic Track Program February 2016 Online

How to sign onto WVSSAC and enter in Password and E-mail address ................................... 3

How to sign onto Arbiter and take the Part I Exam ................................................................... 3

Test Dates for the Part I Exam ................................................................................................. 4

Failure to take the Part I Exam - ............................................................................................... 5

Track Rules Clinic Dates & Locations. ...................................................................................... 6

Attendance at the WVSSAC sponsored rules clinic is a requirement to officiate the 2016season. (see Additional Option for Clinic Attendance in your Officials’ Handbook) locatedon our website.

Track Officials Bulletin .............................................................................................................. 7

2016 Starters and Referees Application ................................................................................... 8

2016 Starters State Track Meet Official or Helper Application Form......................................... 9

2016 Track Interscholastic (Online)

2016-17 Officials’ Registration Form....................................................................................... 10

Due date is June 15, 2016 for all sports. A return verification card for your Registrationwas mailed with the Rule Book. If you wish verification of receipt of the Registration Form,return the verification card with postage when you send in your Registration Form.

Yearly Requirements .............................................................................................................. 11

Officials’ Handbook Index.......................................................................................................12

Bench Clearing Rule ..............................................................................................................13

Game Suspension Guideline .................................................................................................14

Body Fluid Policy ...................................................................................................................15

Concussion in Sports – What You Need to Know ..................................................................17

Return to Play – Protocol .......................................................................................................18

WVSSAC Heat Acclimatization and Heat Illness Prevention Position Statement ..................19

NFHS Heat Illness Prevention ...............................................................................................20

Heat Index ..............................................................................................................................21

How to Enter Self Nomination Forms .....................................................................................22

Sudden Cardiac Arrest Awareness.........................................................................................23

For additional information related to sports medicine issues concerning athletic participation,please click the “Sports Medicine” tab on the opening page of our website.

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My Officials’ Packet! Where is it?1. Go to www.wvssac.org2. On the SSAC homepage look on the right side of the screen. Locate and click on the link Officials3. Once the Officials page opens look for Officials Packets and click on the sport. Example: Football Officials

Packet

How Do I Login To The Officials’ Management Page?1. Go to www.wvssac.org2. Go to Admin Login (Located in the left-hand corner of the homepage)3. In the Username and Password section enter in your Registration Number (ALL CAPS)4. Click on Login, and then you are on the Officials’ Management Page5. Then click on Edit Your Information and enter your email address and new password. Password and email

address must be the same as used in Arbiter.

NOTE: Before you attempt to login to the Arbiter Hub (WV Central Hub Site) you must have completed theinstructions listed above. The upload to Arbiter Sports (WV Central Hub) is not instantaneous. After you havecompleted the instructions above, you must wait to be uploaded to the WV Central Hub/Arbiter Site.

If you have more than one account (local board associations, other states, etc) with Arbiter Sports YOU mustmake sure the e-mail address and password you have entered in as an official for the WVSSAC is the same toprevent log in errors on the WV Central Hub site for your test.

How to Login to the WV Central Hub/Arbiter Site for Part 1 and Part 2 Tests:1. Go to www.wvssac.arbitersports.com2. Go to the Sign In Area (Located in the upper right-hand corner)3. Enter your email address and password4. Click Go5. Click on the Testing Tab6. Look under Open Test7. Find the appropriate test8. Click on Take Test

How to Login to Register Online on the WV Central Hub/Arbiter Site:1. Go to www.wvssac.arbitersports.com2. Go to the Sign In Area (Located in the upper right-hand corner)3. Enter your email address and password4. Click Go5. Click on Registration Tab6. Read and follow the 4 steps of registration7. Review Sports and Click on Make Payment8. Print a copy for your records

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DO’S and DON’TS:DO read, follow and understand the instructions before you log in to the WVSSAC and/or WV CentralHub site on Arbiter Sports!DO write down your password after you change it. They are case sensitive!DON’T PROCRASTINATE!DON’T use Auto Complete to remember passwords. All passwords are reset each year!DON’T share your email address with other officials!

REMEMBER:

If you are having difficulty in logging into the WVSSAC site as an Official or the WV Central Hub site withArbiter Sports please contact Roberta Newton or Alice Goodwin and have your instructions available.

Part I Test WindowBaseball – Softball – March 1, 2016 - March 15, 2016Track – February 8, 2016 - March 7, 2016

Part II Test WindowBaseball - Softball – March 21, 2016 – April 5, 2016Track – No Part II Test

Deadline For Self Nomination Forms-OnlineBaseball – April 11, 2016Softball – May 4, 2016

Deadline For Game Reports-OnlineBaseball - Softball – August 1, 2016

Baseball – Softball:Note: Failure to take Part I – Loss of 5 points on classification scale

Failure to take Part II – Refer to Item J-4, Pg. 15 andItem M-2, Pg. 17 of the Official’s Handbook.

Track:Note: Failure to take Part I – Suspension the current season

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TO: TRACK OFFICIALS

FROM: Ray Londeree, Assistant Executive Director

DATE: January – 2016

SUBJECT: PART I EXAM

It is mandatory for all track officials to take the Part I Exam online.

From the Officials’ Handbook found on our web site, Item M. Testing, page 17states: EXCEPTION: Track: Take National Federation Rules Examinations in thesports where specified. If the Part 1 Test is not taken within the establishedtesting schedule, the official may pay a $50.00 fee and take a late test. Thisprocedure must be completed within 14 calendar days after the Part 2 Examhas closed. Failure to take Part 1 will result in suspension for the current year.

Make sure you enter a password and e-mail address on the WVSSAC websiteto be able to take the Part I Exam. Dates for the test are in this online packet.If you have any problems taking the exam or getting on our website contactyour local board secretary or the WVSSAC office before the final date of thetest.

rmn

WEST VIRGINIA SECONDARY SCHOOL ACTIVITIES COMMISSION

2875 Staunton Turnpike, Parkersburg, WV 26104-7219

TELEPHONE: 304-485-5494 E-MAIL: wvssac@wvssac.orgFAX NUMBER: 304-428-5431 WEB SITE: www.wvssac.org

B U L L E T I NB U L L E T I NB U L L E T I NB U L L E T I NB U L L E T I N

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2015-2016TRACK RULES CLINICS

DATE LOCATION TIME COORDINATOR

Feb. 1 WVSSAC Office 6:00 p.m. Ray Londeree

Feb. 2 Huntington H. S. 6:00 p.m. Bruce Senior

Feb. 4 Wheeling Park H.S. 6:00 p.m. Dwaine Rodgers

Feb. 6 Martinsburg H. S. 9:00 a.m. David Walker

Feb. 6 Frankfort H. S. 12:30 p.m. Kevin Shupe

Feb. 8 Woodrow Wilson H.S. 6:00 p.m. Tim CarricoBeckley

Feb. 9 Capital H.S.-Charleston 6:00 p.m. Cody Clay

Feb. 11 Robert C. Byrd H. S. 6:00 p.m. Steve Gibson

Feb. 15 *WVSSAC Office 6:00 p.m. Ray Londeree*Make-up Clinic - $10.00 Fee

SCHOOLS: The Head Coach shall be required to attend any sports rules clinics whichare sponsored by this Commission in his/her coaching assignment. Schools failing tohave a head coaching position filled at the time of the clinic will be required to have aschool representative present at the rules clinic. An individual can only represent oneschool unless he/she is head coach at both schools. In a 9-12 school, both the varsityand 9th grade coach are required to attend. Failure to have a representative at one of theabove clinics will result in a $50.00 fine.

The clinic attendance requirement will not be granted if the coach or representativeis late in excess of 10 minutes.

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TO: TRACK OFFICIALS

FROM: Ray Londeree, Assistant Executive Director

SUBJECT: 2016 Season

Enclosed in your officials packet:

1. 2016 Track & Field Rule Book and 2016 Case Book

2. Instructions on how to go to our website and enter inyour e-mail and password.

WEST VIRGINIA SECONDARY SCHOOL ACTIVITIES COMMISSION

2875 Staunton Turnpike, Parkersburg, WV 26104-7219

TELEPHONE: 304-485-5494 E-MAIL: wvssac@wvssac.orgFAX NUMBER: 304-428-5431 WEB SITE: www.wvssac.org

B U L L E T I NB U L L E T I NB U L L E T I NB U L L E T I NB U L L E T I N

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2016 APPLICATION FORMStarters and Referees

Please complete this application form if you wish to serve as a Starter or a Referee for a WVSSAC Regionaltrack meet. Please list below all the major meets you are scheduled to work this spring. If you needmore space, you can either attach another page or use the back of the application. Please complete the formand scan and return to rmessenger32@gmail.com or snail mail to:

Richard R. Messenger530 Valley Chapel RoadWeston, West Virginia 26452

Please return by March 1, 2016

NAME: ____________________________________ WVSSAC REG #: ____________First Initial Last

HOME ADDRESS: _______________________________________________________Street City State Zip

HOME PHONE: (______) ____________ CELL PHONE: (______) ______________

Email: _________________________________________________________________

Which position are you applying for: Starter ________ Referee _______Both ________

Years of experience as: Starter ________ Referee _______

Dates you are available: May 11 ___ May 12 ___ May 13 ___ May 14 ____

If you have questions or concerns, you may email me at: rmessenger32@gmail.com or call me at 304-476-8410.

Date Meet Location Time

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

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2016 WVSSAC WESTVIRGINIA STATE TRACK MEET OFFICIAL OR HELPERAPPLICATION FORM

Please complete this application form to volunteer to officiate or volunteer to work as a supporting helper in the WVSSAC State HighSchool Championship Track and Field Meet on Friday, May 20 and Saturday May 21, 2016 at Laidley Field in Charleston. Friday’ssession will begin at 2:00 PM – you will need to arrive by 1:00 PM. Your participation in the State Meet is very important for its continuedsuccess and will be greatly appreciated. Please make sure that you include your email address as that is how assignments willbe sent to you.

NAME: ____________________________________________________ WVSSAC REG #: ______________________First Initial Last (If an Official)

HOME ADDRESS: ________________________________________________________________________________Street City State Zip

HOME PHONE: (_________) _____________________ CELL PHONE: (__________) ________________________

Email: _____________________________________________________________________________________________

Please indicate below your four (4) officiating preferences, numbered 1 to 4, with your first preference being a 1, which, in youropinion, you possess officiating competence and experience. (You probably will be selected to officiate in your preference, but we needto have other choices, just in case.) If you only give me one choice and I have too many officials for that area I will assign youwhere officials are needed. Officials who volunteer to work this meet will have their WVSSAC registration fee waived for the followingyear, provided you complete the registration form and return it to R. Messenger at the meet. We will provide lodging for out-of-town officials as necessary and appropriate, subject to availability. A light meal will be provided on Friday evening. Coffee and donutswill be provided on Saturday morning along with a sit down lunch during the mid-day break. Certain officials and positions have beenpre-selected by the State Track Committee and the Games Committee.

_______ Clerk ______ Shot Put ______ Long Jump

_______ Umpire ______ Discus ______ Pole Vault

_______ Marshall ______ High Jump ______ Awards

_______ Other (Identify) __________________________

(Supporting personnel/helpers may check the “Other” block and fill in the area you wish to work.)

1. I am available to commit to the two-day State Track & Field Meet on May 20 and May 21, 2016:

_____ YES ______ NO Please return this form even if your answer is No.

2. First year you served as a Track & Field Official: _____________

3. _______ Check here if you need lodging – If so, when? ___________________________________

Please return this form to me at the WVSSAC Rules Clinic or mail by no later than March 1, 2016, to:

Richard Messenger, 530 Valley Chapel Road, Weston, WV 26452

If you have questions or concerns, you may email me at: rmessenger32@gmail.com or call me at 304-476-8410 (C).

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WEST VIRGINIA SECONDARY SCHOOL ACTIVITIES COMMISSION

2875 Staunton Turnpike, Parkersburg, WV 26104-7219

TELEPHONE: 304-485-5494 E-MAIL: wvssac@wvssac.orgFAX NUMBER: 304-428-5431 WEB SITE: www.wvssac.org

2016-2017Registration Form

Please Print Legibly

**Required Information

**Registration Number:_______________________________________________________

**Social Security Number: ____________________________________________________

**Name: ___________________________________________________________________

**Address: _________________________________________________________________

**City/State/Zip: _____________________________________________________________

**Home Phone: __________________________ **Cell Phone: _______________________

E-Mail Address: _____________________________________________________________

**Select Sport: (Please complete one registration form per sport)

_____Football $45 _____Volleyball $39

_____Basketball $45 _____Baseball $39

_____Wrestling $45 _____Softball $39

_____Soccer $39 _____Swim $35

_____Track $35 _____Tennis No Charge

Inactive Registration: List Sport Here______________________________$10 Fee

Total Enclosed $____________ Check# ____________

Make Check/Money Order Payable To: WVSSAC Registration fee is Non-Refundable.

Registration Form & Payment Are Due: June 15th of Each Year.

If Postmarked After June 15th, Please Include A $25 Late Fee. This Includes InactiveRegistrations As Well. Registrations will not be accepted after the Make-Up Clinic of thesport for which you are registering.

_______________________________________________ _______________________Signature Date

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WEST VIRGINIA SECONDARY SCHOOL ACTIVITIES COMMISSION

2875 Staunton Turnpike, Parkersburg, WV 26104-7219

TELEPHONE: 304-485-5494 E-MAIL: wvssac@wvssac.orgFAX NUMBER: 304-428-5431 WEB SITE: www.wvssac.org

B U L L E T I NB U L L E T I NB U L L E T I NB U L L E T I NB U L L E T I NYEARLY REQUIREMENTS FOR

REGISTERED OFFICIALS

1. MUST BE A CURRENTLY REGISTERED OFFICIAL AND MUST BELONG TO A LOCALBOARD, IN ORDER TO OFFICIATE ANY SPORT. (NO OFFICIAL MAY OFFICIATE UNTILREGISTRATION IS COMPLETE.)

2. MUST ATTEND THE WVSSAC SPONSORED RULES CLINIC IN THE SPORT FOR WHICHHE/SHE IS REGISTERED. FAILURE TO ATTEND THE STATE CLINIC WILL CAUSE YOUTO FORFEIT REGISTRATION FEES AND SUSPEND YOU THE CURRENT SEASON INTHAT SPORT.

3. ATTEND A MINIMUM OF FOUR (4) LOCAL BOARD MEETINGS. FAILURE TOATTEND THE MIMIMUM MEETINGS WILL RESULT IN SUSPENSION FOR THE NEXTFOLLOWING SEASON IN THAT SPORT.

4. MUST TAKE NF PART I TEST ONLINE.

5. MUST TAKE THE NF PART II EXAM. FAILURE TO TAKE THE PART II EXAM WILLRESULT IN SUSPENSION FOR THE FOLLOWING SEASON IN THAT SPORT.

6. MUST SUBMIT GAME REPORTS BY THE SPECIFIED DATES AS LISTED ON THE BACKOF THE GAME REPORTS, IN THE OFFICIALS HANDBOOK, AND IN YOUR SPORTBULLETIN.

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WEST VIRGINIA SECONDARY SCHOOL ACTIVITIES COMMISSION

OFFICIALS’ HANDBOOK

Index

NOTE: It is the responsibility of every official to know the rules set forth by this officethat are contained in the Officials’ Handbook and to abide by those rules.

IV. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS .............................................................................................. 12

Local Board/Registrations ......................................................................................................... 12

Age............................................................................................................................................. 13

Character .................................................................................................................................... 13

WVSSAC Registration Date ...................................................................................................... 13

Registration Fees........................................................................................................................ 13

Late Fee ..................................................................................................................................... 13

Physical Exam ............................................................................................................................ 14

Leave of Absence/Inactive ......................................................................................................... 14

Membership Transfer ................................................................................................................. 15

Rules ......................... ............................................................................................................... 15

Reinstatement ............................................................................................................................. 16

Clinic Attendance ........................................................... ......................................................... 17

Testing........................................................................................................................................ 17

Officiating Rules ........................................................................................................................ 18

Tournament Assignments ........................................................................................................... 18

Uniform ...................................................................................................................................... 19

Classification and Promotional Scale of Officials ...................................................................... 21

V. REPORTS TO BE FILED BY OFFICIALS ......................................................................... 22

Special Reports .......................................................................................................................... 22

Officials’ Rating by Coaches ...................................................................................................... 23

Coaches Rating of Officials’ . ..................................................................................................... 23

Needs Improvement ................................................................................................................... 23

VI. GAME CONTRACTS............................................................................................................. 23

VII. OFFICIATING FEES .............................................................................................................. 24

VIII. NON-WVSSAC ORGANIZATIONS ..................................................................................... 24

IX. FORMING A NEW OFFICIALS’ BOARD .......................................................................... 24STATE LAW / ASSAULT AND BATTERY ................................................................................... 25

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(Ejection Rule / Bench Clearing) 2015-16

127-4-3 Code for Interscholastic Athletics

3.7. Statement of Policy. Insofar as unsportsmanlike actions by students, school administrators, officials, coaches, faculty members,and spectators are concerned, the identical items under the Sportsmanship Rule along with the following guides will be referred to by the WVSSAC:

3.7.a. The school whose coach behaves in a manner likely to have adverse influence on the attitudes of students or spectators maybe provided with the choice of taking disciplinary action against that coach or having the entire school disciplined by the WVSSAC.

3.7.b. Any student who in protest lays hands or attempts to lay hands upon an official may be declared ineligible by the principal orby the WVSSAC for up to one year. Any student who strikes an opponent, coach, or a spectator during or following an athletic event may bedeclared ineligible by the principal or the WVSSAC for a specified period of time up to one year, depending on the seriousness of the act.

3.7.c. Any coach, student, or bench personnel ejected by an official will be suspended for the remainder of the game, match, meetor contest. The coach, student, or bench personnel ejected by an official will also be suspended in additional contest(s): the suspension will beassessed based upon ten (10) percent of the allowed regular season contests or post season progression in a playoff tournament for each sport.Any tenth of a percentage from .1 to .4 will be a suspension equal to the whole number of the percent. Any tenth from .5 to .9 will be an additionalcontest added to the whole number. The suspension will include the number of indicated contests in that sport and at that level and all other sportcontests in the interim at any level. A second ejection will result in the doubling of the suspension assessed for the first ejection. If an individual isejected for a third time during the same sport season, the individual will be suspended from participating or coaching for 365 calendar days from thedate of ejection. In accordance with rule 127-3-15.3, an individual ejected by an official may not appeal that ejection, or any subsequent suspensionthat is a consequence of the ejection by an official..

3.7.c.1. Any coach, player or bench personnel who has been ejected shall not be permitted to attend any contest(s) during saidsuspension. He/she shall not be affiliated with the team in any capacity. This would include but not be limited to transportation to or from thecontest, meeting with the team before, during or after said contest. He/she is not permitted to be in sight or sound of said contest venue. Regularpractice or team meetings not affiliated with a contest are permitted.

3.7.c.2. If suspensions are imposed to a student or bench personnel at the end of the sport season and no contest remains,the suspension is carried over to that particular sport until the next school year. In the case of a senior student, the penalty will continue to the nextWVSSAC sponsored sport.

3.7.c.3. Any coach suspension that cannot be enforced during the sport season in which the ejection occurs will be enforcedat the beginning of the next season of that same sport.

3.7.d. In case of spectators physically molesting an official, administrator, coach, or student, the school may be given one of twooptions: 1) file charges against the offender (s) or 2) accept discipline from the WVSSAC. Any person found guilty of W.Va. Code §61-2-15(a)Assault, Battery on Athletic Officials, while these individuals are working or as a result of working an athletic contest, shall be banned from allWVSSAC athletic events for a minimum of 365 days from the date of being found guilty. The school filing charges shall notify the WVSSAC of theincident and outcome of any legal action.

3.7.e. The school that does not lend complete cooperation in the host school’s effort to promote the spirit of good sportsmanshipmay be disciplined by the WVSSAC.

3.7.f. A coach may be considered as committing unsportsmanlike conduct if they make degrading remarks about officials during orafter a game either on the field of play, from the bench, or through any public news media, argues with officials, or goes through motions indicatingdislike for a decision, protests the decision and actions of officials pertaining to the game during and after the contest, or detains the official on thefield of play following a game to request a ruling or explanation of some phase of the game. If a coach feels he/she has a legitimate criticism of apenalty call or a request for a rule interpretation, such criticism or request should be made in the privacy of the coach’s office or the official’s quartersand should be made in a courteous manner.

3.7.g. A student or team attendant shall not leave the bench area, team box area, or their designated off-field area during a game orcontest other than during that time permitted by game or contest rules. A coach shall not leave the bench area, team box area, or the designated off-field area during a game or contest other than during that time permitted by game or contest rules unless a student altercation is taking place and theofficial requests assistance. Violation of this rule shall cause the coach, student, or team attendant to be immediately ejected from the contest, teampenalized according to game or contest rules and that coach, student, or team attendant will not be eligible to participate in the next contest asoutlined in §127-4-2.3.

3.8. Procedure. Unsportsmanship action must be reported in detail to the WVSSAC. A copy of the complaint must also be filed with theprincipal of the school involved. Each principal involved shall report such information or answers to the report as they deem appropriate. Uponreceipt of all reports, the Executive Director and/or the Board of Directors of the WVSSAC shall investigate and adjudicate such reports in accordancewith the powers afforded in §127-1-8.6 and 8.7 and §127-1-12.2 and 12.3 of the Constitution. Penalties up to and including suspension of memberschools may be made in accordance with §127-4.

3.9. The following defines the different types of disciplinary action which may be assessed for violation of any WVSSAC rule by amember school, administrator, coach, athlete or contest official:

3.9.a. Warning. A warning may be given by the Executive Director or Assistant Executive Director. It is official notice that aninexcusable, unethical, or unsportsmanship action has occurred, is a matter of record, and that such an occurrence must not be repeated.

3.9.b. Probation. Probation is a much more severe type of warning and may be expressed two ways: 1) a school, coach, student,or team attendant on probation is told that further violations will lead to a fine or suspension; and/or 2) a school on probation is on conditionalWVSSAC membership but may engage in its regular schedule, sanctioned events, and all WVSSAC tournament play, providing a program is filedwith the Executive Director of the WVSSAC indicating measures to be taken to alleviate this problem which caused the school to be placed onprobation.

3.9.c. Suspension. A school/coach suspended from the WVSSAC may not meet in interscholastic competition of any kind with aWVSSAC member school or a school that is a member of another state associated with the National Federation of State High School Associations.

3.9.d. Fine. A fine may be levied by the Executive Director.3.9.e. Each of these sanctions (Warning, Probation, suspension and Fine) may be imposed or levied separately, or in a combination

of one or more sanctions.3.10 Appeals. All cases involving disciplinary action against member schools, coaches, students, team attendants, or officials may be

protested in accordance with §127-6. However, disciplinary action imposed by an official, including disciplinary action that is a consequence of adecision by an official, such as a suspension for an additional game or games as a consequence of an ejection, is governed by rule 127-3-15.3 andis not subject to appeal.

3.11 Review of Ejections. Disciplinary action imposed by a contest official, including disciplinary action that results in a suspension foran additional game or games as a consequence of an ejection, is not subject to appeal pursuant to Rule §127-6. However, if the individual ejectedbelieves the ejection was improper, he/she may request a review of the ejection by his/her principal. If the principal believes there is merit in therequested review, the principal shall complete and submit the WVSSAC Ejection Review Form within 24 hours or the next business day of theejection to the Executive Director of the WVSSAC. If a review is properly requested, the WVSSAC will review the officials’ special report, theWVSSAC Ejection Review Form, and such other information as the WVSSAC deems appropriate. Upon review, the WVSSAC Executive Directoror the designated Assistant Director will either sustain the ejection and any consequent suspension(s), or will determine the ejection was improperand void any consequent suspension(s). A decision by the WVSSAC upon reviewing an ejection is not subject to appeal pursuant to Rule §127-6.

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National Federation of State

High School Associations

NFHS Guidelines on Handling Practices and ContestsDuring Lightning or Thunder Disturbances

National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS)Sports Medicine Advisory Committee (SMAC)

These guidelines provide a default policy to those responsible or sharing duties for makingdecisions concerning the suspension and restarting of practices and contests based on thepresence of lightning or thunder. The preferred sources from which to request such a policy foryour facility would include your state high school activities association and the nearest office ofthe National Weather Service.

Proactive Planning

1. Assign staff to monitor local weather conditions before and during practices andcontests.

2. Develop an evacuation plan, including identification of appropriate nearby safe areas.

3. Develop criteria for suspension and resumption of play:

a. When thunder is heard within 30 seconds of a visible lightning strike, or a cloud-to-ground lightning bolt is seen, the thunderstorm is close enough to strike your locationwith lightning. Suspend play for thirty minutes and take shelter immediately.

b. Thirty-minute rule. Once play has been suspended, wait at least 30 minutes afterthe last thunder is heard or flash of lightning is witnessed prior to resuming play.

c. Any subsequent thunder or lightning after the beginning of the 30-minute count willreset the clock and another 30-minute count should begin.

4. Review annually with all administrators, coaches and game personnel.

5. Inform student athletes of the lightning policy at start of season.

For more detailed information, refer to the “Lightning and Thunder Safety” section contained inthe NFHS Sports Medicine Handbook.

Revised and Approved January 2014

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WEST VIRGINIA SECONDARY SCHOOL ACTIVITIES COMMISSION 2875 STAUNTONTURNPIKE, PARKERSBURG, WV 26104

BODY FLUID HANDLING PROCEDURES

PURPOSEThe West Virginia Secondary School Activities Commission has adopted this policy in an effort to minimizethe possibility of transmission of any infectious disease during a high school athletic practice or contest.The policy primarily addresses blood-borne pathogens such as Hepatitis B virus and the HumanImmunodeficiency Virus (HIV). However, it also discusses common-sense precautions against the spreadof less serious contagions such as the Influenza virus and the Common Cold virus.Much of this policy has been written with contacts sports such as football, wrestling, and basketball inmind. However, it is applicable for all sports.

BLOOD-BORNE PATHOGENSBlood-Borne pathogens such as Hepatitis B and HIV are serious infectious diseases which are present inblood as well as other bodily fluids; such as semen, vaginal secretions and breast milk. While there are anumber of other such blood-borne diseases, Hepatitis B and HIV are the most commonly known.Hepatitis B is a virus which results in a dangerous inflammation of the liver. Its victims suffer long-termconsequences and reoccurrences, and the disease can be deadly if not treated. HIV is the virus thatcauses Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS), which weakens the immune system, thus making aperson susceptible to infections their immune systems would normally fight off.The precise risk of HIV transmission during exposure of open wounds or mucous membranes such as theeyes, ears, nose, and mouth to contaminated blood is not known. However, evidence would suggest it isextremely low. In fact, the possibility of contracting HIV in this manner is much less than the possibility ofcontracting Hepatitis B and other blood-borne viral infections.Therefore, student athletes, coaches, and officials must understand that while it is possible for HIV to betransmitted by blood from one individual to another through an open wound or a mucous membrane, theprobability is very low. However, since the chance of this occurring is not zero, the appropriate precautionsshould be taken to ensure no transmission can occur.

PRECAUTIONS AGAINST TRANSMISSION OF BLOOD-BORNE PATHOGENSThe proper handling of body fluid spills should be a concern of teachers, coaches, officials, and studentathletes. All concerned individuals must be aware that any time there is blood and/or other body fluidspresent, there is the possibility of an infectious disease being present. However this possibility can benearly eliminated of the following precautions are observed.

General Procedures:1) Wear latex or vinyl disposable exam gloves before making contact with body fluids during care,

treatment, and cleaning procedures.2) Discard gloves after each use.3) Wash hands after handling any body fluids, whether or not gloves are worn.4) Discard disposal items in plastic lined containers with lids. Close bags and discard daily.5) Do not reuse plastic bags.6) Use disposable items to handle body fluids whenever possible.7) Use paper towels to pick up and discard any solid waste materials such as vomitus and feces.

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Procedures for Activities:1) All athletes must cover any open wound.2) Student athletes should treat and cover their own wounds whenever possible.3) When administering first aid, disposable rubber gloves should be worn. A different pair of gloves

should be worn for each treatment administered.4) If an individual gets someone else’s blood on his/her skin, the area should be washed with soap

and water and wipe the area with disinfectant, such as isopropyl alcohol.5) If a student athlete begins to bleed during activity, play must be stopped, the student athlete who

is injured removed, and any potentially contaminated surfaces cleaned using a disinfectant. Thesurface should be wiped with clean water.

6) Any student athlete that is removed must have the wound covered and the bleeding stopped,prior to returning to contest.

7) Any individual who has treated a wound or cleaned a contaminated surface should wash his/herhands with soap and warm water.

8) A student athlete should take a shower using a liberal amount of soap and warm water followingthe contest.

9) Towels, which are used by athletes, coaches, or officials should not be used to clean off anypotentially contaminated surfaces.

10) All soiled linens such as towels and uniforms should be washed in hot water and in a detergentcontaining bleach, if possible.

11) If a coach or an official gets blood on them they should first wash the area with warm water andsoap, and then wipe the area with a disinfectant such as isopropyl alcohol.

12) All coaches, athletes, and officials should practice good hygiene. Towels, cups, and water bottlesshould not be shared.

13) Keeping locker rooms and other areas well ventilated and clean can also help in preventing otherair-borne contagions from being transmitted.

REFERENCES

St. Joseph’s Hospital, Sports Medicine Staff, Parkersburg, WV.West Virginia Chapter of the American Academy of Family Physicians, Sports Medicine Committee.“Blood-Borne Pathogens in the Health Care of the Athlete,” The First Aider, Fall 1992, Vol. 62, No.1.“Infectious Disease Policy of the Florida High School Activities Association.” 8-8-92.“Routine for Handling Body Fluids,” Michigan High School Association.

Policy Adopted by the Board of Directors

ag/bodyfluidhandlingprocedures

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Concussion in Sports - What You Need to KnowOrdering Information at www.nfhslearn.com

Steps to access the FREE course:1. Go to www.nfhslearn.com2. Sign in with your e-mail and password if you have previously registered.3. If you need to register, it will only take a couple of minutes. All users at www.nfhslearn.com

must be registered with a unique e-mail address and password.4. Toward the upper left-hand part of the screen , you will see the “Click to Access This Free

Course” for “Concussion in Sports — What You Need to Know.”5. You can order licenses as an individual to take the course yourself OR you can purchase

courses in bulk if you intend to distribute the courses to others (there is a limit of 99 licensesper any one order).

6. Note: You will need to click on “Save” once you have put the course(s) in your cart and beforeyou can proceed to Checkout.

7. As you go through the process you will see that you are using the “purchasing process” thatis standard for NFHS Coach Education courses. You are not being charged anything for theConcussion courses. You do have the ability to order other courses at the same time, and youwill be asked for payment for those.

8. You can then start the course if you ordered as an individual or begin distributing the licensesif you ordered in bulk.

9. If necessary, refer to the form regarding distributing bulk licenses. It can be found in theLocker Room at www.nfhslearn.com.

The online concussion course is offered at no cost to the user. Once you have finished, youwill be added to the database as having completed the course. The name of the individualcompleting the course will appear in the “Coach Search” feature as having completed this coursealong with any other courses completed at www.nfhslearn.com.

Concussion Course RequiredAll Head Coaches are required to take the free course “Concussion in Sports” annually.

If the Head Coach took the course last year, he/she MUST take the course again before theanniversary date from the previous year.

You must go through the purchase/checkout process for the free course in order to get credit forthe current year and to be able to print the certificate.

New Head Coaches must take the course now. Follow the directions “New to NFHS Learn?Register Now” on www.nfhslearn.com

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WVSSAC

Return to Play (RTP) Protocol

An athlete removed from a contest that shows signs/symptoms of a concussion shall beimmediately evaluated by an appropriate health care professional. If no appropriate healthcare professional is available, the athlete shall not be allowed to RTP.

When the athlete is evaluated by the appropriate health care professional, if it is determinedthe athlete has suffered a concussion, the athlete shall not be permitted to RTP the sameday as the concussion. If it is determined by the appropriate health care professional thatthe athlete did not suffer a concussion, the athlete may be returned to play as deemedappropriate by the health care professional.

RTP shall be delayed until athlete is asymptomatic and has undergone a progression oftests to determine if they are able to RTP.

The progression shall follow: (Neuro-cognitive testing is strongly recommended.)

• No activity with complete physical and cognitive rest

• Light aerobic exercise (less than 70% of maximum heart rate)

• Sport specific exercise (drills specific to the athlete’s sport)

• Non-contact training drills (more intense sport drills with no contact from otherplayers)

• Full participation practice (following written medical clearance)

• Return to Play (normal game play)

If any symptoms occur during the progression, the athlete should drop back to the previouslevel and try to complete that level after 24 hour rest period.

Appropriate Health Care Professional

Note: Any of the following who have appropriate training in the evaluationand management of head injuries.

• Medical Doctor (MD)

• Doctor of Osteopathy (DO)

• Doctor of Chiropractic (DC)

• Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP)

• Physician Assistant (PA-C)

• Registered Certified Athletic Trainers (ATC/R)

Approved Board of Directors 5/06/10. Reviewed 2015

rk:Sports Medicine/Return to Play

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WEST VIRGINIA SECONDARY SCHOOL ACTIVITIES COMMISSIONWVSSAC Sports Medicine Committee

Heat Acclimatization and Heat Illness Prevention Position Statement

Although deaths from heat illness are rare, constant surveillance andeducation of our student athletes and coaches is necessary in order tomaintain the safety and health of our students and coaches. Studentsparticipating in high-intensity, long-duration or repeated same-day sportspractices and training activities during times of high heat and/or humiditymay be at risk.

Following the recommended guidelines and procedures as establishedby the WVSSAC Sports Medicine Committee can reduce the risk andincidence of heat illnesses and the resulting deaths and injuries in highand middle school athletics. The Sports Medicine Committee andWVSSAC Board of Directors recognize the importance of our coachesand other individuals responsible for supervising our students. They havethe ultimate responsibility for the health and welfare of those studentsunder their care.

It is strongly recommended that each member school have a writtenEmergency Action Plan for practice and games to deal with emergenciesrelated to injury or illness to a student athlete. The plan should includeinvolvement of local rescue agencies, medical doctors, hospitals and locallaw enforcement agencies.

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21

····· 91 degrees Heat Index or under – All Sports:

····· Provide ample amounts of water. Thismeans that water should always beavailable and athletes should be able totake in as much water as they desire.

····· Optional water breaks every 30 minutes.····· Ice-down towels for cooling.····· Watch/monitor athletes carefully for

necessary action.

····· 104 degrees to 125 degrees Heat Index– All Sports:

····· Same as above plus; Alter uniform byremoving items if possible.

····· Allow for changes to dry t-shirts and shorts.····· Reduce time of outside activity as well as

indoor activity if air conditioning isunavailable.

····· Postpone practice to later in the day.····· Suspend practice, or remove equipment

and decrease practice intensity for sportsand activities where additional equipment isrequired for contact or safety.

····· 92 degrees to 103 degrees Heat Index– All Sports:

····· See above plus; Contact sports andactivities with additional equipment (ie), helmets and other possibleequipment removed if not involved incontact.

····· Increase water breaks; a minimumevery 30 minutes.

····· Reduce time of outside activity.Consider postponing practice to laterin the day.

····· *Re-check temperature and humidityevery 30 minutes to monitor forincreased Heat Index.

····· AboAboAboAboAbovvvvve 125 degrees Heate 125 degrees Heate 125 degrees Heate 125 degrees Heate 125 degrees HeatIndexIndexIndexIndexIndex

– All Spor– All Spor– All Spor– All Spor– All Sports:ts:ts:ts:ts:

····· Suspend all outsideSuspend all outsideSuspend all outsideSuspend all outsideSuspend all outsideactiactiactiactiactivity in practice and/orvity in practice and/orvity in practice and/orvity in practice and/orvity in practice and/orplaplaplaplaplayyyyy,,,,, andandandandand stop all inside stop all inside stop all inside stop all inside stop all insideactiactiactiactiactivity if air conditioningvity if air conditioningvity if air conditioningvity if air conditioningvity if air conditioningis unais unais unais unais unavvvvvailabailabailabailabailablelelelele.....

····· Re-eRe-eRe-eRe-eRe-evvvvvaluate beforealuate beforealuate beforealuate beforealuate beforeresuming actiresuming actiresuming actiresuming actiresuming activitiesvitiesvitiesvitiesvities.....

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HOW TO ENTER SELF NOMINATION FORMS

1. Go to our website and click on Admin Login2. At User Name enter your registration number IN ALL CAPS.3. At Password enter your password that you have created.4. Once you’re on the Officials Management Page click on Self Nomination Forms5. In the upper left hand corner of the screen check and see if you are on the correct sport. If you are,

Click on Load Self Nomination Form.6. Once you’re on the Self Nomination Form page you enter the month, day, and year.7. Click if it’s boys or girls.8. Click if its college, varsity, jv, middle/other.9. Click your position.10. Click and select the Home Team. If the team is a non-member school you need to click in the box that

says Non-Member School and type in the school name.11. Click on and select the Visitor Team. If the team is a non-member school you need to click in the box

that says Non-Member School and type in the school name.12. Click on Add Game. This Key will start a new entry below the one you just entered.13. When you have entered in all the games you need to qualify for tournament assignment, Go to and

READ the Section on How to Submit Application. You must check mark all the boxes. When all boxesare marked the Save Application button will appear.

14. Click on the Save Application button. This is the same as Submit Application.15. The screen will go blank and you need to click on the back to menu button in the upper left hand

corner.16. Click on the Load Self Nomination button again and check all the games you have entered. If

everything looks ok you don’t need to do anything else just logout. If you need to make any changesor corrections, make your corrections and click save application again.

If you have followed the Instructions above correctly you will receive an e-mail confirmation that you’re SelfNomination Form has been received.

You don’t need to contact this office if you have received an e-mail.

Please remember to update you e-mail address if you have any changes.

WEST VIRGINIA SECONDARY SCHOOL ACTIVITIES COMMISSION

2875 Staunton Turnpike, Parkersburg, WV 26104-7219

TELEPHONE: 304-485-5494 E-MAIL: wvssac@wvssac.orgFAX NUMBER: 304-428-5431 WEB SITE: www.wvssac.org

B U L L E T I NB U L L E T I NB U L L E T I NB U L L E T I NB U L L E T I N

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What is Sudden Cardiac Arrest?• Occurs suddenly and often without warning.• An electrical malfunction (short-circuit) causes the bottom chambers of the heart (ventricles) to beat

dangerously fast (ventricular tachycardia or fibrillation) and disrupts the pumping ability of the heart.• The heart cannot pump blood to the brain, lungs and other organs of the body.• The person loses consciousness (passes out) and has no pulse.• Death occurs within minutes if not treated immediately.

What are the symptoms/warning signs of Sudden Cardiac Arrest?• Fainting/blackouts (especially during exercise)• Dizziness• Unusual fatigue/weakness• Chest pain• Shortness of breath• Nausea/vomiting• Palpitations (heart is beating unusually fast or skipping beats)• Family history of sudden cardiac arrest at age <50ANY of these symptoms/warning signs may necessitate further evaluation from your physician beforereturning to practice or a game.

What causes Sudden Cardiac Arrest?• Conditions present at birth (inherited and non-inherited heart abnormalities)• A blow to the chest (Commotio Cordis)• An infection/inflammation of the heart, usually caused by a virus. (Myocarditis)• Recreational/Performance-Enhancing drug use.• Other cardiac & medical conditions / Unknown causes. (Obesity/Idiopathic)

What are ways to screen for Sudden Cardiac Arrest?• The American Heart Association recommends a pre-participation history and physical.• Always answer the heart history questions on the student Health History section of the WVSSAC Physi-

cal Form completely..• Additional screening may be necessary at the recommendation of a physician.

Where can one find additional information?• Contact your primary care physician• American Heart Association (www.heart.org)• August Heart (www.augustheart.org)• Championship Hearts Foundation (www.championshipheartsfoundation.org)• Cypress ECG Project (www.cypressecgproject.org)• Parent Heart Watch (www.parentheartwatch.com)

WVSSACSUDDEN CARDIAC ARREST AWARENESS